Editorial board opinion: Large events welcomed in Crossroads

By the Advocate Editorial Board
July 15, 2010 at 2:15 a.m.

We salute our region's two biggest sporting events: the NGA Hooters Golf Tour and the Poco Bueno fishing tournament, both in progress this week. These spectator events have a great influence on the area's economy and tourism because thousands of out-of-town visitors converge on the Crossroads, and that means a boost to earnings in the region.

As the Advocate reported, about $1 million will be spent in Victoria during the golf tournament, which ends Sunday, at restaurants, hotels and retail establishments, according to Randy Vivian, president and CEO of the Victoria Chamber of Commerce. Hosting the tournament cost $70,000, so the return on investment was fabulous, and the Victoria Country Club has contracted to host the tour for three years.

This year, the tour attracted 132 players. We probably will be seeing some of the players again if they advance to the PGA tour. Currently, ESPN and the Golf Channel are reporting on the tour.

In Port O'Connor, with residents numbering a little more than 1,000, thousands more will flow into the coastal village as the 41st Poco Bueno invitational fishing tournament gets under way this weekend. That means Port O'Connor restaurants and businesses will get large increases in earnings over the weekend.

Without a doubt, Port O'Connor's economy will receive a huge boost. People from all over come to the tournament for other reasons besides fishing for the largest blue marlin. They come to see the $1-million yachts, eat good food and attend parties. Weigh-ins of catches are a big draw, as well.

And, of course, the prize for the winning marlin attracts fishers from all over. Last year, the Calcutta pot was $150,000 shy of $1 million - likely, this year will surpass $1 million. The Poco Bueno is a prime people-watching event.

We are fortunate to have these fabulous sporting events in our region. We praise the organizers of both and wish you continued success.

This editorial reflects the views of the Victoria Advocate's editorial board.

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IF YOU GOWHAT: Poco Bueno Inshore Weigh-ins

WHEN: Friday

TIME: 4 p.m. - midnight

WHERE: The Fishing Center, corner of Water and 13th streets in Port O'Connor

WHAT: Offshore Weigh-ins

WHEN: Saturday

TIME: 4 - 8 p.m.

WHERE: The Fishing Center, corner of Water and 13th Street in Port O'Connor